Another big gig, featuring four bands, took place the previous weekend. The gym was converted to a concert venue once again. Not sure where our musicians get the energy from but apparently they are not burned out yet and enjoy the practice sessions and the live gigs. Enjoy the pictures:

After the sunrise dinner our musicians had a sound check for the concert the next day. I was waiting to take over from Shaun for two songs (more like making sure nobody knocks over the mixer) and used the time to take a few pictures.

Time just flies and we already reached the winter solstice. The solstice marks mid-winter, which is a very special day in Antarctica. From now on the sun will be winding its way back up and we should see some light from below the horizon in August. This is our very own Antarctic holiday and Antarctic Stations use the occasion to exchange greetings with each other.

We had a big formal dinner on Friday night. Formal means anything other the blue boots or bunny boots. Some folks managed to wear a suit, some of us managed a clean t-shirt, and some of us didn’t manage to show up. Those of us who did were treated to a great multi-course meal. I had to go to work after dinner and by the time I got back the Station was all quiet. I think most people crashed early to safe some energy for Saturday night.

Saturday we had another eclectic mix of bands playing at the “Son of Polestock” festival in the Gym. I had to work and I was only there for the beginning and the end, but I could listen to the middle part via our live Internet stream. Once I got back I had a few beers and it was a really good party. I think I’ll just let the pictures speak for themselves:

It is the last weekend of the month and once again time for a “long” weekend. Most people in the real world would call it a normal weekend but folks down here normally don’t get Saturdays off.

Yesterday Polestock 2008 came to town. We are fortunate enough to have many gifted musicians with us this year and a number of bands have formed and been busy practicing for the event. A stage was built in the gym, lights were setup, a bar was dragged in, and a lounge area was setup. For some reason the event started already at 5pm, quite early for my night schedule. I couldn’t have a drink because I still had to go to work. Everyone around me seemed to be well lubricated, though. The bands were all good and definitely could be enjoyed sober.

Sunday, on the other hand, was pretty quiet. Many people were probably nursing a bit of a hangover. There is an advantage to not being able to drink :-)